Tann,
I think we struggle here in the US because we haven't decided if prison is punitive or if it is rehabilitative. I don't think we've even decided this dichotomy should be differentiated based on the crime.

There are opportunities for prisoners to gain education and skills while incarcerated here, but I don't know if that system is aligned with helping people successfully re-enter society. Many companies and institutions, by design and mission, aren't allowed to hire people with criminal records.